Abstract:
The study was an attempt to understand the relationship of early gender role
socialization, parenting style of father, and machismo among a homogeneous
population. There were 90 participants in the study, all of which were 4th or 5th year
Electronics and Communications Engineering students, heterosexual males, and eldest
among their siblings. Sequential mixed methods were used. Findings are consistent with
past studies that showed traditional gender role socialization is associated with
machismo. However, regression analysis showed that authoritative fathering style
predicts machismo, contrary to Latino studies which assumed authoritarian style
perpetuates it. Qualitative data involving responses from seven interviewees showed
that love, trust, open communication, and bond contribute to the learning of male
norms. Fathers assume active role in socializing their sons and use different strategies
to do so.
